How and Where to Celebrate Hanukkah in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has plenty of Hanukkah happenings planned throughout the eight-day-long holiday celebration.
Via Getty Images.
For those who may not be as familiar with the history of the widely celebrated Jewish holiday, the story of Hanukah begins around 166 BC when King Antiochus IV of the Greek Empire outlawed Judaism and defiled the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In response, a small Jewish army known as the Maccabees led a successful rebellion against the Greeks. But when they returned to the Temple to relight the ritual candelabra (menorah), there was only enough oil left to last one day. Miraculously, it lasted eight. Today, Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah and commemorate the Maccabees’ victory with eight nights of menorah lightings and fried food (made with oil) consumption.
While many traditionally do their celebrating with family at home, Rhode Island does have plenty of Hanukkah happenings throughout the week for your consideration:
Kosher Senior Cafe Hanukkah Celebration
When: Friday, December 20, 11a.m.-1p.m.
Where: 401 Elmgrove Ave, Providence
What: The Kosher Senior Cafe will be hosting their Hanukkah celebration featuring live music from Stanley Freedman and Friends followed by a delicious holiday meal.
More info: jewishrhody.com
Chanukah at Shalom Apartments
When: Wednesday, December 25, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Shalom Apartments
What: A traditional menorah lighting ceremony complete with hot latkes and a gelt and dreidel game.
More info: rabbiwarwick.com
Hanukkah Spectaculah
When: Thursday, December 26, 4:45p.m.-6:00p.m.
Where: Providence City Hall
What: Menorah Lighting outside Providence City Hall followed by food, music and art inside the building.
More info: jewishrhody.com
Chanukah at Pawtuxet Park
When: Thursday, December 26, 7p.m.
Where: Pawtuxet Park Warwick
What: Menorah Lighting- hot latkes, gelt, Dreidels and more
More info: jewishrhody.com
Menorah Lighting at East Greenwich Town Hall
When: Saturday, December 28, 6p.m.
Where: East Greenwich Town Hall Front Lawn
What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.
More info: rabbiwarwick.com
Menorah Lighting in Warwick Mall
When: Sunday, December 29, 4:30p.m.
Where: Warwick Mall near JC Penney
What: Menorah Lighting and Chanukah along with hot latkes, donuts, gift shop and A & C for children.
More info: rabbiwarwick.com
Menorah Lighting Ceremony on the RI State House
When: Monday, December 30, 6:00p.m.
Where: RI State House
What: Enjoy a celebratory occasion of the Menorah Lighting followed by Greetings from Dignitaries, hot latkes, gelt and more.
More info: jewishrhody.com
Cranston City Hall Menorah Lighting
When: Tuesday, December 31, 4:30p.m.
Where: Lobby of Cranston City Hall
What: The menorah lighting ceremony will also include hot latkes, Chanukah gelt, snacks, music and Chanukah greetings from dignitaries.
More info: jewishrhody.com
But if you are planning to stick closer to home, consider picking up a delicious Hanukkah-appropriate goodie or two from one of the following Jewish (or Jew-ish, as the self-proclaimed case may be for some) bakeries:
Just Like Nana’s
Hours: Order for pickup only, see website for details.
Read more on our blog here.
560 Mineral Spring Ave., Pawtucket, 859-333-9096, justlikenanas.com
Oak Bakeshop
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 7a.m.-2p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 7a.m.-3p.m.
Read more on our blog here.
130 Cypress St., Providence, oakbakeshop.com
Navad Bakers
Hours: Order for pickup or delivery. See website for details.
63 Commercial Way, East Providence, 425-9544, navad.com
